SOS MEDITERRANEE ship Ocean Viking attacked by Libyan Coast Guard

On August 24th, our rescue ship the Ocean Viking was attacked by the Libyan Coast Guard while in international waters. On board were 87 rescued people and 34 crew members. Hundreds of bullets were fired during 20 terrifying minutes, shattering windows, gouging the exterior, and puncturing our specialized lifeboats (RHIBs). No one was physically injured, but the ship was damaged and is now out of commission.

When will SOS MEDITERRANEE get back to sea?

We will not be able to restart our rescue missions in the Mediterranean for at least two months.

Our ship needs new windows, the bullet holes need to be patched up, and the lifeboats repaired.
We cannot return to sea until we can ensure that our crew will not be putting their lives at risk, nor those of any rescued people.
We will challenge the EU until it not only protects humanitarian workers but suspends all financial, material, and operational support for the Libyan Coast Guard.
We have begun legal action in France and Italy, requesting prosecution for attempted multiple homicide, attempted shipwreck, damage to a vessel, as well as any other offense the Judicial Authority may deem applicable.

How is the European Union implicated in this attack?

European states, with Italy at the forefront, continue to support, equip, and train the Libyan Coast Guard. The gunmen’s boat was a gift from Italy in June 2023¹ as part of the EU’s “Support to Integrated Border and Migration Management in Libya (SIBMMIL)” program. The attack on us on August 24th is one of at least three incidents involving patrol boats given to Libya by Italy.

How can I help?

91% of our funding comes from private donors like you². Just €5 has an immediate impact when it comes to saving and caring for people in distress at sea. If you can’t donate, please help us spread the word. Humanitarian vessels are being attacked at sea in flagrant violation of international maritime and humanitarian law. Your voice can make a difference.